For UCF Football, March might mark the beginning of spring football but this year it launched a monumental beginning.  As the team and staff took to the field together for the first time, it marked the beginning of the Malzahn Era.

Announced as the new head coach on February 15, Gus Malzahn immediately made it clear that he believes that UCF is “The Future of College Football” and his staff will recruit the southeast like “our hair is on fire.”  Statements like these and others, combined with Malzahn’s passion, have resonated with the UCF fan base eagerly wanting to see the Knights get back to the dominance they once flexed just a few years ago.  

“We will recruit like our hair is on fire!” – Gus Malzahn

Malzahn’s biggest fans, however, are not in the stands or in the social media groups.  His biggest fans are in the locker rooms – both current and previous locker rooms.  Malzahn’s genuine care for the well being of his team is undeniable and in a locker room that’s crucial.   

At UCF, he has quickly won over a locker room that knows they are far better than their 6-4 record from last season.  The team has already exhibited a confidence and swagger that went missing early into their 2020 campaign.  Some leaders on the team have even taken to social media to announce “We’re back!”  

Aside from reigniting his currently locker room, Malzahn has already garnered the accolades and attention of some high caliber former players – all with eligibility.  Rumors of SEC transfers have already been heard and the buzz of UCF in the elite high school recruiting circles has quickly escalated.  

Time will tell how the hire of Gus Malzahn will truly impact the UCF Football program but I believe he will be the most impactful coach in the history of their program.

(Photos: Sean Russell, FAAZ Sports & Cameron Robertson, FAAZ Sports)